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The Sacrifice of Bhishma: A Study of Duty and Loyalty in Mahabharata
Can you imagine living your whole life just sacrificing, living in a state of selflessness? That was the life of Devavrata, most famously known as Bhishma. Bhishma was a pivotal figure in the Hindu epic Mahabharata, known for his steadfast commitment to his vows and highly principled way of living. Raised to be the king…
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Understanding Samkhya Philosophy: Core Concepts Explained
Samkhya philosophy is one of the six schools of Darshanas (principal thoughts) in Hinduism. What does Samkhya mean? Samkhya has multiple meanings, including its literal interpretation as ‘number’ or to ‘count/calculate’. The term derives from Samyag Akhyate, which means to explain everything. Samkhya, also referred to as Sankhya or Samkhya yoga, is a dualistic philosophy…
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Karma and Maya: Keys to Breaking the Cycle of Samsara
According to Hindu philosophy, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, known as Samsara, reflects our journey through multiple identities based on karma and maya. Achieving spiritual liberation, or moksha, involves self-realization and aligning actions with dharma to escape this cycle.
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Kumbh Mela Origins: Unveiling Ancient Traditions
The Kumbh Mela is one of the world’s largest gatherings, drawing millions of Hindus to the sacred sites of Haridwar, Nashik, Prayagraj, and Ujjain to bathe in holy rivers. This spiritual assembly is founded on the belief that immersing oneself in these sacred waters purifies the soul and erases sins, offering attendees a chance for…
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Understanding Kali Yuga: The Age of Darkness in Hindu Cosmology
Kali Yuga is a Hindu cosmological concept that is recognized as the age of Iron or darkness. Characterized by a significant decline in virtue and righteousness, this era is filled with immorality and sin. Values which once upheld society have been overshadowed by greed, malice and hostility. Kali Yuga is often considered the peak of…
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Arjuna’s Dilemma: The Concept of Dharma as Duty
The Kurukshetra war, also known as the Mahabharata war, is often recognized as the fight between two families of the same dynasty, the Pandavas and the Kauravas; however, to label that as such would be oversimplifying the true nature of the battle. The Mahabharata war is more than a mere cousin’s war; it is a…
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Understanding Purushartha: The Four Aims of Human Life
Purushartha is an ancient Indian concept deeply rooted in Sanatana Dharma. It provides a framework for understanding the aims and objectives of human life. This principle outlines four primary aims: Dharma (righteousness and ethical living), Artha (prosperity and economic well-being), Kama (desires and emotional fulfillment), and Moksha (spiritual liberation). Dharma Dharma embodies the principles of…
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